Single and multiple period layout models for automated manufacturing systems (Q1175306)

The paper studies making layout decisions for automated manufacturing systems for the uncertain product mix situation which is normally the case during the layout design phase. A single period model is first considered to find out the results of the product mix changes on the layout. A solution method is described which is based on solving a special version of a quadratic assignment problem as well as on an introduced concept of layout dominance. That model, while of interest itself, is then taken as a basis for a multi-period model where the product mix changes from one period to another are assumed. A dynamic programming formulation is developed to handle the later model.